It is the 16th year of Hong Kong's return to our motherland. Undeniably, many events have occurred since the handover, and for the most part, the nation has offered much support for us over the years. It is sad, however, that few in Hong Kong are genuinely knowledgeable about the country. Therefore, the resistance from certain sectors of the community against the introduction of moral and national education is particularly ironic. I believe that national education is necessary, but that it could be subsumed into the existing subjects such as Chinese language and literature, Chinese history, geography and general studies etc.

One major role of education is to help students understand how the world is interconnected and the dynamics of international relations. Our students should be taught causal relationships to develop their analytical skills. It would encourage them to be more effective as well as assertive in contributing to positive change in our country and the world at large. It means imparting to them the significance of partnerships, energy conservation, investments and innovation. All this begins by understanding how Hong Kong is interdependent with the whole country, and how China's interests are intertwined with the rest of the world.

When children grow, their world view begins in the family. Later, they attend school where they gain a sense of community. Gradually, they learn how the family, community, city, nation and all of mankind are interconnected. Only when our children are knowledgeable about their own roots can they interact effectively with the outside world.

Then US president John F. Kennedy's famous appeal to his countrymen has often been quoted "Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country." National education first and foremost asks us to become knowledgeable and responsible citizens who can contribute to society, the country, and mankind.

Hong Kong is in a unique position as it is governed under the "One Country, Two Systems" concept enshrined under the Basic Law. Therefore it is just as important to understand the Hong Kong legislative system as it is for the mainland's political system. An increased emphasis on national education will promote a deeper understanding of the nation's internal politics and international relations, sustainable development efforts, economics, and social issues, all of which are integral to the ongoing growth of society. How else could citizens maintain Hong Kong as a gateway for foreign investors into China?

The nation is calling for experts in all sectors, and Hong Kong must continue to cultivate new talent to keep pace with the rapid changes taking place. Thus, a deep sensitivity for our motherland ought to be nurtured within every discipline. For this to happen, I believe that national education should be integrated into various subjects for students to see how the things they learn may be applicable in their future careers and daily lives.

Some parents are afraid that a moral and national education course is an attempt to "brainwash" their children. There has been much heated discussion over this topic, and one of the conclusions drawn is that there has been no evidence of bias for the central government as far as the guidelines for the curriculum are concerned. Teachers and educators are free to choose their own teaching materials and are wholly responsible for the topics and methodology used in teaching the courses.

Hence no one is obligated to use the controversial booklet that had been distributed to the schools. Given the broad subject of national identity, we should not allow unfounded fears of one booklet to hinder our children from learning about our country and their roles and responsibilities in society.

But we should not aim for our children to achieve only material success when we are feeding them with all the relevant information and providing them with all the essential training. We must also aim to develop in them the correct moral fiber and strength of character through our culture, much of which can be exemplified in Confucianism and Taoism.

The author is former secretary for home affairs of the HKSAR government.

(HK Edition 08/30/2012 page3)